Orlando City will be without their star striker this weekend, as Cyle Larin joins the Canadian National Team for their Gold Cup Quarterfinal against Jamaica. In the match against Atlanta, they will have to find a way to produce goals. So, who will they turn to?
Carlos Rivas is Orlando City’s second highest goal-scorer this season. He has scored four goals and earned five assists so far this season. Kaká isn’t far behind with three goals and four assists of his own, despite missing part of the season due to injury.
In Larin’s absence, Kreis often plays Giles Barnes alongside Rivas up top. But a key part of the Orlando City attack will be the battles in the midfield, making sure that the Lions maintain possession and slow down the attack from Atlanta. Kaká could play a critical role in maintaining that control and momentum for the Lions.
Rivas’ speed could be critical to the team’s success. Atlanta likes to move a lot of players forward, focusing on the attack. If Rivas’ can get the ball and break away, he has a strong potential to score. Some defenders, such as Scott Sutter and Jonathan Spector, also have the potential to score off of set pieces.
But another key to this match is defending. Atlanta United likes to play open, high-scoring matches. If Orlando City’s defense can contain and deny Atlanta’s offense, and if the team as a whole can maintain possession, the three points become much more tangible.
Atlanta is a team with something to prove. The Lions will have to be ready to stifle that momentum. But with a focus on momentum and speed, they can beat Atlanta at their own game.
